Best Dispersed Camping near Catskill, NY

Want to go dispersed camping near Catskill? With The Dyrt, it's easy to find peaceful dispersed camping near Catskill. Search dispersed campsites you've visited before, or discover new spots and read camper reviews.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Catskill, NY (14)

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Showing results 1-10 of 14 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews in Catskill

10 Reviews of 14 Catskill Campgrounds


  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Betty Brook Camp
    Mar. 24, 2024

    Betty Brook Camp

    One of my favorite

    Love to camp here all year long have been coming to the area for a couple of decades now. Remote. Sometimes you never see anyone. Sometimes you see some people. You camp on the stream. There is a couple of spots

  • P
    Camper-submitted photo from Betty Brook Camp
    Dec. 17, 2023

    Betty Brook Camp

    Pretty good place

    I live near this campground. I'm about a mile away and I pass it every day. It is rather remote, but it is right along West kill road. There's a stream alongside it, a fire pit, and a town about 8 mi away. It's a small town, with just a gas station store. I would not recommend this for large trailers. The site is fairly small, but it's in state park, and there's tons of walking that can be done.

  • KThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Echo Lake
    Jul. 9, 2021

    Echo Lake

    Lovely Camping in the Catskills

    This campground was my first backpacking trip and it was perfect!  There are tent sites around the whole lake with fire pits and 1 lean-to site at the end of the trail when you first arrive at the lake.  The sites are relatively flat and well shaded with trees.  Note, it can get swampy near the edge of the lake so you may want to bring bug spray.  Make sure you practice leave no trace principles and pack out what you bring in!  It does get a little crowded later in the day so you may have to share space with others and it can be a little noisy at night.

  • Doc B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park
    Jun. 17, 2021

    Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

    A hidden gem...

    99% off people don't even know this area exists. If you want a quiet piece of beautiful forest to truly rough it and go camping for a few days, then this is what you have been looking for. Less then 10 min drive from town, but hiking in and finding a suitable place to make camp has the feeling of the wild, with the safety of having full cell service. There is plenty of trails to explore and wildlife to enjoy, especially since these over 900 acres also back up to another huge plot of protected forests. Please enjoy Mother Nature's healing love, and leave the area cleaner than when you arrived. Always let someone know where you are headed and when you plan to return.

  • Ali B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping
    Sep. 28, 2020

    Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping

    Dispersed primitive camping

    Great camping spots about 1.5 mile hike in from Denning Trailhead. A lot of spots right by the river. Great spot to camp and then wake up to hike to tabletop/ peekamoose mountain. (near the top of tabletop there is also a lean-to for camping).

  • Cory D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed
    May. 28, 2019

    Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed

    A place to sleep near the gunks

    This isn't a fancy campsite and has no amenities. There is a small(10 car) parking lot and a trail that runs thru 80 acres of forest. Camping is allowed anywhere 150ft from the trail. Normal LNT rules apply. Bugs are relentless. Many climbers stay there for access to the gunks.

  • Luke A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Sage's Revine
    Oct. 3, 2018

    Sage's Revine

    Fantastic spot, right near water. 12 platforms available.

    Near non-potable stream, no fires allowed, bathroom is fine, bear boxes available. 50 feet between platforms. Right over the border of CT into MA on the Appalachian Trail. Great spot, highly recommend.


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Guide to Catskill

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Catskill, New York, where nature lovers can immerse themselves in serene landscapes and enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of options for those seeking adventure and tranquility.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Catskill, New York

  • Many dispersed camping spots, like Duck Pond Campsite, are accessible via unpaved roads, providing a sense of adventure right from the start.
  • Always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of areas such as Burnt Rossman State Forest - Westkill Camp, ensuring that future visitors can enjoy the same pristine environment.
  • Be prepared for varying conditions; some sites may lack amenities, so bringing your own supplies is essential for a comfortable stay, especially at places like Rider Hollow Dispersed Camping.

Scenic spots for dispersed campers

  • The Denning Trailhead Peekamoose Primitive Camping area offers stunning views and is perfect for those looking to hike and camp near the river.
  • For a more secluded experience, check out Hemlock Ridge MUA Dispersed, where you can find peace among the trees and enjoy the sounds of nature.
  • If you're looking for a picturesque setting, Echo Lake features tent sites around a beautiful lake, making it an ideal spot for both camping and fishing.

Dispersed campers should check out Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park

  • This area is known for its vast wilderness and is a hidden gem for those seeking solitude, as highlighted by visitors to Taconic Hereford Multiple Use Park.
  • With no permit required, it’s an excellent choice for spontaneous trips, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors without the hassle of reservations.
  • Campers can enjoy the freedom to explore over 900 acres of protected forests, making it a prime location for hiking and wildlife observation.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Catskill, NY?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Catskill, NY is Echo Lake with a 5-star rating from 1 review.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Catskill, NY?

    TheDyrt.com has all 14 dispersed camping locations near Catskill, NY, with real photos and reviews from campers.